20 June, 2015

Yoga- The true meaning

We are used to seeking
fulfilment externally. We live in a materialistic world where petty things
give us pleasure. Yet, we all know that outward things can never make anyone
happy or contended. In fact, they create a lust for more, a want for more. We
aim for things that are unattainable. We strive for impossible. We yearn for
more and get sad because our expectations are not met. We have stopped enjoying
the small and basic pleasures of life- a smell of a flower, the lush greens,
and the chirping birds. We are caught up
in doing rather than being. We want action and not awareness. We find it hard
to meditate and make the mind quiet, still and calm. The mind is forever in
motion and in rush. But we see our reflection only in still water. When the
mind is still, it transcends to another level of ecstasy. The science of Yoga
is in being still. Yoga is ancient, spiritual science that offers solution to
turbulent thoughts and restless body. It helps us to know ourselves. It helps
us to be aware and to direct our energies inwards. Human brain should not be
limited to five senses of perception. That is a very partial and deceptive
data. We have to tap deeper and subtle levels of awareness. Through Yoga, we
reverse the ordinary and outward flow of energy to higher, deeper and inner
level. Through Yoga, we can experience the truth that our fallible senses keep
us deprived of.

Yoga helps us to realise our
oneness with infinite intelligence, supreme power, to “Anant” and most
importantly to our own self.

Science has validated yoga
and its effects. Physicists have identified consciousness. Modern science has
accepted the unity that of this universe. Yoga means union of individual
consciousness or soul with universal consciousness or spirit. Yoga is not just
physical exercise or postures and asanas. In fact, that is a very superficial
aspect of this deeper and profound knowledge about unfolding unlimited
potentials of human mind and soul.

There are various paths of
this comprehensive science

Karma Yoga - Seva or karma or selfless service to others as part
of one’s larger self. It is done with compassion and without any greed for
returns.

Hatha Yoga -
Physical postures or asanas. It is done to purify the mind and body, making it
fit for meditation and for higher awareness.

Bhakti yoga-
done through devotion, surrender and striving to see love and divinity in every
creature.

Raja yoga-
the royal yoga that has been immortalized by Krishna in Bhagavad Gita.

Yoga is a conscious effort
for union of spirit to be blissful. It is a timeless science behind all true
religions and spirituality to realise the oneness of the soul with the entire
universe. It is a science of union with God.